Giant City State Park in southern Illinois provides dedicated equestrian camping facilities for riders seeking adventures in the Shawnee National Forest region. Located approximately 35 miles northeast of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, this equestrian-friendly destination connects to several horse trails through hardwood forests and distinctive sandstone formations. The park maintains specific sites designed for horse trailers with gravel parking areas positioned near trail access points.
What to do
Explore forest trails on horseback: Giant City's trail system accommodates various riding abilities with options for both short rides and longer excursions. As Sunshine Z. notes from their experience at nearby Ferne Clyffe State Park, "We came down for a spontaneous camping trip to explore SNF and found Giant City to be a great place to stay. We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private."
Fish in nearby lakes and streams: Several water bodies around horse campgrounds near Cape Girardeau, Missouri provide fishing opportunities. At Johnson Creek Recreation Area, Joel R. reports: "The site was fairly secluded, and right on Kincade lake. The campground is in the Shawnee National Forrest, and We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed, so we stayed up listening for awhile."
View wildlife from camp: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. As Matthew Z. mentions about Dutchman Lake Camp, "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway," which provides convenient wildlife viewing without extensive hiking.
What campers like
Accessible trail connections: Many equestrian camping areas near Cape Girardeau feature direct trail access from campsites. Michael M. from Giant City State Park Campground explains: "There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground. The campground is being upgraded this year in which I belive they are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites."
Quiet camping environments: Several equestrian campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Randolph County State Recreation Area, C.O. simply states: "Clean and very quiet," highlighting the calm atmosphere many horse campers prefer.
Affordable camping options: Horse-friendly campgrounds in the region remain reasonably priced. According to Mari K., "The outhouses were clean and it was pretty cheap," when describing basic amenities at Johnson Creek Recreation Area, a common sentiment across many equestrian camping destinations near Cape Girardeau.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some locations: Certain equestrian campgrounds maintain minimal amenities. As Joel R. notes about Johnson Creek, "The campground is scattered throughout the woods, with pit toilets and there is no shower. Water is available at the entrance. But, for $10 a night it is pretty good."
Seasonal variations affect trails: Trail conditions around Cape Girardeau horse campgrounds change with seasons and weather. Daniel B. explains: "Hike is about 2-4 hours, depending on your pace. I suggest photos of the trailhead signs before you set out," reflecting the importance of preparation before riding the trails.
Wildlife encounters common: Expect wildlife interactions at equestrian camping areas. According to MickandKarla W. at Shawnee Forest Campground, "There are mature trees here and there in the CG, so satellite should not be an issue. We got two bars on Verizon. Each of the bath houses have a washer and dryer."
Tips for camping with families
Bring appropriate gear for children: Pack extra supplies for younger campers at horse campgrounds. At Ferne Clyffe State Park, Stephanie S. shares: "Clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout. Short trail leads from campground to the limestone cliffs. Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!"
Consider age-appropriate trail options: Choose suitable riding trails based on experience levels. Shana D. mentions about Giant City: "While you are here, check out the Lodge for dinner one night and climb to the top of the water tower observation deck for some amazing views! Make the quick drive to Makanda and explore the little hippy town."
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service varies across equestrian camping areas. Tabitha R. from Johnson Creek Recreation Area explains: "This campground provides large spots, drinking water, vault toliets, dumpsters, picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and contactless check in. I also appreciate the value of these sites. It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping."
Tips from RVers
Check site accessibility: Some horse campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. As Tori P. explains about Shawnee Forest Campground: "We have a large 8 person tent and need water & electricity so we rent out RV spots instead of the typical tent spots. When we arrived after our 15 hour drive, someone decided to park in our site."
Water and electric hookups vary: RV amenities differ between equestrian campgrounds. At Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR, Joel R. reports: "Nice campground, right on Crab Orchard Lake. Large sites, lots of room. We camped with several other families and everyone enjoyed this park."
Plan for dump station access: Some equestrian areas require planning for waste disposal. J.K. advises about Randolph County: "Make sure you fill up at the dump station before you get to the campground because there's no easy way to turn around if you miss it. It's approximately a mile before the campground on your left."
